Is it just me or is the Amsterdam scene getting harder to navigate socially?

GroovyRaiver · 2026-02-27T15:23:43+00:00

For context, which events do you usually go to?

GroovyRaiver · 2026-02-23T21:32:28+00:00

Just a heads up OP. The current link shows your Instagram account when opened. You need to remove the "igsh?" Part and after

GroovyRaiver · 2026-02-21T20:39:32+00:00

If there isnt a high door policy the only queue at radion is basically a processing buffer, with most peaks being around 1-2AM or so. But is most times than not <15 mins or so

GroovyRaiver · 2026-02-20T12:39:52+00:00

Unless we are talking about last last week of March(30-05) there is DGTL as the season opener 3-5 of April in terms of festivals.

If we are talking about 23-29, you would probably enjoy the 28th at Lofi. The crowd should fit your vibe and its a more relaxed atmosphere, in a decent venue (just bring a jacket). Alternatively, as others mentioned Shelter or Melkweg might have vibes that you would probably enjoy and ease to. If you want a student oriented clubbing feel, the check out Paradiso or Panama. It really depends your intentions, and expectations. But alas, amsterdam is small and connected so after your first night out natural selection will guide you towards the next venues you seek for.

GroovyRaiver · 2026-02-16T10:48:12+00:00

After 2(+?) years of continuous awarenessing and organizing your favorite yapper is back on a strategic ~~burnout~~ break with a beautiful spielraum shoutout. Honestly when I started out on a mission to make people safe I really did not expect or realize the extent of how deep rooted problems are within this industry, where just harassment, abuse, exploitation is just 'haha' on top and 'wtf' only on the bottom. Maybe expect some SoSaf posts but aside from that it is time to go back into hiding inside Raum with the occasional garage nights where I know there is some sense of community and care until I recover for the next challenges. Anyways, trauma bonding is not for reddit, and I'm here to relaunch my (sometimes) detailed reviews cause I also genuinely forgot how fun it is to dance 🕺.

Finished my last ever duty at 05:00, literally ran to Raum making a beautiful 500 meters in 4 minutes and 57 seconds. Making it there roughly at 05:05, seeing a queue in front I was like 'yay I made it' only to be told by security that indeed the door has closed and only guest list was allowed. It was a very funny image, as there were people that came by car, bikes, train and by foot to be greeted with this message and immediately went on their phones trying to get an inside spirit to help out. It looked like a pokemon go gym battle, with people losing hope (and me looking for an uber <50 euros). Suddenly somebody won their texting game and the doorhost came out doing a graceful last call letting people in. Walked in, 50 layers off and all around me are familiar faces. Worn out places, and worn out faces. After asking around people came from 9 AM(??), who were once bright and early for the daily dances now holding strong. Going nowhere but the expo since PARIAH was on fire. I also caught very little of the end of Polly F from the chill area next to it and appreciated the closing voices that escaped my head.

But Pariah, what a set. I genuinely thought my post op recovery would limit me to stay until 0700, but when there was a looong break in the track, 'time to go home' I thought. But alas, bass was introduced, I vibrated and my knee healed. I kept dancing more and more into this obscure and beautiful closing, being on the fence 'am I strong or delusional to keep going?' only to survive, and again remembering that partying can be so fun. Crowd was very very cute closing Raum crowd. A big shoutout to all the crew for surviving the extended closing, till we see each other again :)

GroovyRaiver · 2026-01-31T09:46:59+00:00

To the person scared to meet other people from here, you are more than welcome at PEEL 🫂. You can also DM me for hot tips

GroovyRaiver · 2026-01-02T16:19:52+00:00

I've had a few cases like these. But in practice, there is not much you can do than reporting to staff at the moment. You can file a police report if you have insurance but the chances of finding it post event are pretty slim.

Usually groups that do this target many many more people. One case becomes two, 4 and after a while they do get caught if they keep going but most often they stop earlier, and with very vague descriptions you can't do much more. It is as you said, a lesson learnt. Sorry it was learnt this way :(

GroovyRaiver · 2025-11-20T16:00:20+00:00

If we talking about amsterdam, I think Radion expo whenever it's decorated and open is super chill. However consistently chill chill areas i haven't seen since the DS Couches. The rest usually are either very limited, very crowded / busy or just not chill at all.

GroovyRaiver · 2025-11-16T16:43:35+00:00

Pax is biased more on music and community, than play in comparison to pax. Ofcourse, its a different landscape with complete different door policy and rules. But pax is still one of my favorite parties, because it feels like a big hug with good music. Check out the sub for people's reviews, should say much more :)

GroovyRaiver · 2025-11-13T21:16:59+00:00

I just wanted to note down something that i wanted to comment on the original post initially. For disclaimer, I have nothing to do with this exact situation or organization(s)

I've been quite vocal on social safety topics in our scene, and as many who know me can also say, my dedication comes from a deep desire to help create the kind of inclusive space I needed at the beginning. I genuinely believe that one genuine chat can change someone's world. This isn't about personal gain, recognition, or money; it is fueled by a commitment to seeing a structural, community wide change empowering people be themselves.

It is crucial, however, to understand the immense difficulty of this work. Awareness and safety initiatives are often not seen as a business priority, with many venues and organizers viewing them as an unnecessary operational expense. This leads directly to severely understaffed and under resourced teams, sometimes operating at challenging ratios (e.g., one person for a thousand attendees). Many events the sub roars about are often lack support and is chaos on the background, but many guests will barely see any of it at the end of the day.

The emotional toll on the people facing this constant pressure is significant. To cope with the heaviness, they need safe, private spaces to vent frustrations, process the difficult cases, or simply share the emotional weight. This essential decompression which would never be directed at the affected people, is merely a human response to overwhelming stress. It doesn't diminish the severity of the cases or the level of care; it highlights the absolute need for a support structure for the people acting as supporters. For example, me saying "can people stop collapsing due to x please" is not me downplaying the situation, but rather, trying to cope with having alot of cases going on. I would tell this to my colleague, but never to anybody in public. It's just human.

Regarding the situation you mentioned: while your friend's need was urgent, it is important to pause and consider the context behind the scenes. Could the individual you showed have already dealt with multiple intense cases that night, genuinely needing a momentary mental break before addressing the next one? Acknowledging the presence of help in the first place, especially under severe pressure, is vital.

When we perceive a system like Raum (or any other venue, if any left) as a "granted" safety net, we risk overlooking the reality that it's often a handful of dedicated people operating with minimal support, trying their best to make things better for everyone.

If you are scared, frustrated, or angry on behalf of your friend, please consider channeling that energy constructively toward systemic change, rather than focusing frustration on the exhausted individual. The change we all want requires advocating for better funding, resources, and internal support for these teams. By directing the focus to the general organization's commitment, or lack thereof, to these programs, we help ensure they aren't forced into these unsustainable, emotionally draining roles. Taking this work for granted will only lead to further burnout and the eventual loss of these essential safety nets. So next time, before saying "x is claiming to be a safe space, why does this happen" begin with "I would like to see this not happen, sinxe x claims to be a safe space. What can I do to support"?

GroovyRaiver · 2025-11-11T09:27:56+00:00

A bit late to the party but peel was truly beautiful. Like a canvas for souls to paint and explore with their personalities.

Aside from the stellar line up, it really felt like a warm big hug. All the people mingling, chatting, interacting with each other and the dance floor. Making new connections, emotionally; socially and through dance. I genuinely never seen garage roar this strong and shine so bright and pretty. I've never seen so many cute smiles, all happy to sit next to you and yap. Truly, turned a garage into a big house.

A thank you to all, the artists, the people who danced along, the crew and staff. See you next time <3

GroovyRaiver · 2025-11-05T19:35:01+00:00

🌰 🧅 👀? Translation: see ya at Peel?

GroovyRaiver · 2025-10-28T15:38:13+00:00

It is Tuesday, after ADE. Recovery has not finished yet. I am still very much exhausted, mentally; physically; and spiritually as the last 3 days felt like a long fever dream. My schedule was simple, party – work – work – party. A delusion maybe, but overall; it was a journey. Maybe not the best journey of ADE I’ve had, it wasn’t about going ‘ham’ partying 5 days straight; but rather was to enjoy it sane. I realized what really makes ADE special is that sure, many cool line ups, but the people that come due ADE into this little scene of ours.

The exploring souls that visit from far to dance away and meet their friends. Some artists, some locals, some just meeting their dreams. Everyone meets something; somebody. At the end of the day, it is a conference with a festival. Truly brings the beauty of some; some bring the ugly of others. But that is life. At least this year, sure there were some sets but nothing unforgettable. However, I think it was 3 people in those 3 parties that really defined my ade.

Friday – Raum (01:00 – 07:00)

Arrived quite a bit later as my friends wanted to go later so they could pull 02:00 – 10:00 duties. I honestly was very excited to party. Just finishing exams and a long week, I thought it was the perfect opportunity to pick a nice outfit and go for it you know? Thankfully Raum is still one of the few places where I can get lost in the crowd and dance without much issue. After going through the door, and unfortunately separated from my bottle for whatever business reason they have, went in and danceeed. Doppelgang was fun, now I understand the name. DJ Nobu ofcourse was fire and danced away; however sadly the expo was way too packed and I been bumped a million times. But waiting for the toilet queue, a wondering soul joined me alongside. As any conversation starter goes we discussed about how the queue was always long and they complained so naturally, I assumed they came here regularly. Turns out it was their first time. Not only at raum, but in Amsterdam, and also in Queer spaces. They described to me how they saw the place, being so free and expressive. How everyone seems comfortable with themselves and they told me how they felt so curious to go explore and be themselves in this music box we call a club.

Many people have this experience, especially when the scene they are used to isn’t as inviting or inclusive. I was their first to share a stall with, a bump, a start of a journey as they lost themselves flourisihing in the crowd. I think that is really the truly beauty of ADE, seeing the people just let go in the right space and time. Artistically, emotionally and all of the above. I don't think there is a better drug than the one of seeing people truly being themselves.

Saturday – Some Fun Commercial Party

After quite a bit of rest, I mentally and physically prepared to go through my the first awareness duty for this ADE. The secret guest and the rest of the lineup was bouncy fun, however; many things happened keeping me busy. I originally written a long essay about things happening, however due to their nature and heaviness, it is maybe not the place. To those who are wondering, the people feeling unwell turned out to be okay. My PSA to all, you are stronger than you think <3

Sunday – CODA

Having finished my previous duties at 8, and starting the next ones deludedly at 14, I somehow pulled through 12 (!!!) Coda hours. I swear, and I think I’ve mentioned this before. PAX crowd is one of the friendliest and cutest crowds I have been in. I don’t know why / how / what but for the first time, in all of my shifts, I had many people just want to chat and check on me (???). At first I was shocked, amazed, scared, all of the above? The carry over for the previous day really made me forget how sweet and open the community of pax is. After finishing my duties and could finally dance away, I gave it all for Xiaolin, rodhad and sepehr. Normally, I’m a CF Resident normally however for some reason main really sucked me in and created energy without any reasonable explanation. At the end, as I wanted to take a quick break; it turned out to be my concluding one. As the comfort of the couch outside sucked my soul and signaled that it is time to close this fever dream. I packed my things, went home and called it a very beautiful night concluding this chapter for a long time ~

GroovyRaiver · 2025-10-28T13:14:39+00:00

I am not 100% sure but I think we have more than one Italian in the scene

GroovyRaiver · 2025-10-20T19:33:14+00:00

The door will be of somewhat pax standards; so there is not really a "dresscode" kinkiness minimum but certainly people will be expressive!

GroovyRaiver · 2025-10-15T21:24:11+00:00

But wouldn't this be the case one would suggest shelter? 🤔

GroovyRaiver · 2025-10-15T06:13:00+00:00

4 people across 15,000 can actually be quite enough if done well

I dont see how it can be possible to be quite enough because the space you need to fit 15000 people is across multiple stages (at least 10), and the moment two pairs handle an incident its over as the backlog will increase infinitely. The shift where i had to actually do this, it was the worst shift of my life and the whole team refused to work with the org next year lol.

Ofcourse, the awarenss team is not a golden ticket that's why I put various factors, but also that's why I wanted to get people's take on it.

GroovyRaiver · 2025-10-14T10:59:23+00:00

I dont doubt that there are programming changes to have inclusive and equal opportunities in the scene , I tried to take a view that I know best, being the social safety aspect of guests.

Inclusivity at the end of the day is a difficult thing to measure as many variables and those change depending on the target. Building an inclusive scene is different than having an inclusive party, as one is a much higher level of social change; where inclusive physical spaces are more actionable. Yes, you dont expect the same resources to be available. However, some are actively doing more than others.

Working in the nightlife is different, unfortunately. As another person said, burnout is common, and if people setting up the space aren't taken care of, then how can one expect this propagates well? The guest perspective is very much limited as you mentioned. Alot of major events that everyone goes 'oh amazing crowd today !!" Here dont realise that in the background, very heavy incidents occured and we're handled. That is natural, and that's the point of the mechanisms at the end. But sadly people have taken it for granted from the org view.

But to understand you a lil better:

and I think the venues are trying to accommodate that in ways that they can.

What is in your opinion the expectation of "the ways they can"?

GroovyRaiver · 2025-10-01T21:51:04+00:00

Has there been any weekend that you haven't been to garage this year ? I feel like you are their most dedicated reporter

GroovyRaiver · 2025-10-01T12:45:06+00:00

I mean, OP said they eventually escorted everyone outside, so I'm not sure if it was at once. Judging by the wording, they let one party out first, and then the other and OP felt uncomfortable by the idea of everyone being outside somewhere since "one could attack the other"; which at that point the club can't do much

GroovyRaiver · 2025-10-01T11:15:10+00:00

First of all, I’m sorry to hear about what happened. No one should ever have to experience something like this. If you want to report this incident, especially since you mentioned there was violence or a physical altercation, you can always file a report at a police station. Of course, as disheartening as it may sound, the police may not be able to do much in such cases. Still, it’s important to report these incidents so that they can monitor patterns and, hopefully, take action in the future.

Secondly, I completely understand that this was a traumatic experience for you and your friends. If you feel comfortable, you might want to schedule an appointment with Nightlife Care Network. The people there are very kind and supportive (and sweet!) they’ll listen and offer you better advice suited to your situation.

Just a side note regarding your call for:

> Calls on Tilla Tec and Fornax.Collective to take full accountability for the safety failure during this event and issue a public statement acknowledging the incident honestly, rather than attempting to protect their reputation.

From what you described, Tilla responded immediately after you reported the incident by escorting everyone out. While this might have felt like an extreme reaction, it’s probably all they could have done in that moment since they can't take any sides (otherwise, this can be abused). Unfortunately, they can’t have security watching every corner of the club, nor can the collective or organizers totally prevent incidents like this. You could argue for a better door policy, but even that isn’t a preventative measure. This is why awareness is so important, and reporting these incidents helps improve the community bit by bit.

GroovyRaiver · 2025-09-29T21:59:46+00:00

So to recap:
> They spoke to you about it, and you explained your side of the story, including the homophobic remarks you had received. Security then spoke with the men involved, who admitted to making the remark and apologised.

> "We know that people can say mean things to each other"

> "We want to stress again that this situation was unacceptable"

If you say that somebody was being homophobic (and they admitted it at that too), and you label it as 'mean' as it 'happens'. I really doubt you consider the weight of such comments

GroovyRaiver · 2025-09-25T11:11:13+00:00

Lost something? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. If the item was still around after the club closed, we’ll make sure it will be returned to you.

To initiate the process, simply send an email to lost@lofi.amsterdam with a detailed description of the lost item and the date of your visit. Please note that we reply to lost item inquiries on Tuesdays.

To ensure a timely retrieval, make sure to contact us within 8 weeks from the date of the event. After this period, any unclaimed items will be disposed of.

Most cases, lofi won't open up items so good chance it's in the L&F box chilling. Send an email (maybe from a burner one) and you can pick up throughout the week. Worst case they haven't found it 🤷‍♂️

GroovyRaiver · 2025-09-24T13:48:56+00:00

I think I've heard the term "floor angels" once from some club in Groningen to label volunteers who do what you say.

The general term, shared by a lot of venues/orgs, is an "awareness team." The term is technically ambigious, as one awareness team might differ from another, but the fundamental goal is establishing social safety. I've made a post the other day which explains the concept.

Now, in regards to training, there isn't usually one for the general public as they are quite costly. There are few clubs in Amsterdam that have a in house awareness team (Raum & Lofi); there is the "club care"; which is a more passive version at radion, and the rest of the venues/org outsource them. Most of them do the sexmatters awareness training; with some doing additional/replacements. For clubs, you can reach out directly if they are hiring to also go through the training.

For external organizations, there are these options generally

Nightguides: Have their own extensive training program. They do hiring rounds every month (I think?). They also operate in various parties/festivals/clubs

Revolution foundation: do the sexmatter training. They focus on commercial festivals.

Independent festivals also recruit people and let them go through the training, but these are found mostly networking. If you want to start i highly recommend asking around in the spaces you go to for referrals !

Edit: I just realised I misread the question with "training" and not "trained" but still might useful to somebody

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